Our goal is to give you the most up-to-date, accurate information about your state DMV's processes. The date you see here reflects the most recent time we've verified this information with your state DMV. When they change something, we do, too!

Delaware Driver's Permits

In Delaware, if you're a new teen driver, you must complete the graduated driver license requirements of the DE
Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The first step is to complete a driver's education course and then obtain your level 1 learner's permit.

If you're over
18 years old, you will still need to obtain a learner's permit (temporary instruction permit); however you will have different requirements and restrictions.

Once you have your driver's permit, you will be able to begin practicing driving while supervised and be on your way to passing your road test.

This page outlines the steps you need to take to obtain your DE driver's permit, driving restrictions you must follow, and how to move on to the next steps of the GDL process.

New to Delaware?

If you have an out-of-state driver's license, you have
60 days to transfer it once you move to Delaware.

You will receive a level 1 learner's permit if you've only had your out-of-state driver's license for less than
1 year.

NOTE: You must have completed Driver's Ed in your previous state and have it approved by the DE Department of Education. Make sure to bring your certificate of completion when you apply.

You can also fax it to (302) 739-1770. For questions or more info, call (302) 857-3320.

Taking the Written Delaware Permit Test

The written permit test consists of
30 questions developed from the Delaware Driver Manual. You must answer 24 questions correctly to achieve a passing score.

You may be asked questions relating to:

Highway signs and what they mean.

Pavement markings.

Motor vehicle laws.

Safe practices when driving.

Pass The Written Test On Your First Try

To help you prepare for the written test, the DMV offers a basic practice test and App. In addition, we recommend using an online practice testfrom our approved partner. Take a look at all three, then make your own informed decision which method of study is right for you.

Delaware Learner's Permit Driving Restrictions

Once you have your learner's permit, you may begin practicing driving; however, you must follow certain restrictions.

Under 18 Years Old

Drivers under
18 years old must follow the below driving restrictions:

You can only have 1 passenger other than your supervising driver in the vehicle with you for the first 12 months.

Family members are exempt, but you must still be supervised.

For the first 6 months, you must drive supervised at all times.

For the second 6 months, you can drive unsupervised between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.

You can drive unsupervised only for church, work, and school purposes.

NOTE: Your driving supervisor can be your parent, guardian, or other licensed driver who is at least 25 years old (and must be approved by your sponsor) as long as they:

Have a valid driver's license.

Have held their driver's license for at least 5 years.

Are seated in the front passenger seat while you are driving.

18 Years Old and Older

If you're
18 years old or older, your temporary learner's permit will allow you to drive while supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old.

Behind-the-Wheel Driving Requirements

During the first
6 months of having your level 1 Delaware learner's permit, you must complete 50 hours of
supervised driving time, including 10 hours at night. These hours must be logged in an affidavit signed by your parent or guardian.